Yes, rabbits can eat tangerines as a treat. There’s a bunch of health benefits your rabbit can get from this fruit, but it’s important to limit the portion to prevent any problems from developing. Your rabbit can eat one to two teaspoons of tangerine for every two pounds that your rabbit weighs.
Health Benefits of Rabbits Eating Tangerines
Your rabbit will be in for a tasty snack and will get buckets of nutrition from their tangerine treat.
Tangerines contain:
- Vitamin A: This is especially good for protecting your rabbit’s cells against damage with their strong antioxidant properties.
- Vitamin C: This boosts your rabbit’s immune system, and also strengthens bones, joints, aids in metabolism. Tangerines have especially high vitamin C levels.
- Anti-inflammatory flavonoids: Like other citrus fruits, tangerines contain flavonoids that improve strength, maximise bone density, and also promote blood flow.
- Fiber: This is essential for your rabbit’s digestion. Your rabbit can never get enough fiber so eating food rich in it is always a bonus.
As long as you stick to the advised amounts for your rabbit, they should be able to enjoy this treat with no problems. Make sure you feed your rabbit treats as part of a balanced diet.
Risks of Rabbits Eating Tangerines
It’s worth noting that there can be too much of a good thing. If your rabbit eats too much tangerine and similar foods, they’ll face a range of health issues as a result.
Tangerines contain high levels of:
- Sugar: Too much sugar invites a heap of problems including stomach upset and diarrhoea, and extending to weight gain, dental issues, and addiction.
- Acid: As an acidic fruit, tangerines can cause stomach upset, especially if they haven’t been eating a balanced diet.
- Ascorbic acid (too much vitamin C): Rabbits naturally produce vitamin C, so eating foods rich in it will leave too much in their body. Their body will struggle to remove the excess and can result in kidney damage.
What Other Citrus Fruits Can Rabbits Eat?
As well as tangerines, there are several other options for citrus fruits that you can give your rabbit for a tasty snack:
- Oranges
- Mandarin oranges
- Satsumas
- Clementines
Just remember to wash them first (or buy organic) and always check how much of a portion is safe to give your rabbit.
Related Questions
Can Rabbits Eat Tangerine Peel?
Your rabbit can eat tangerine peels, as long as you are certain that there are no lingering chemicals or pesticides on it. If they’re organic or have been thoroughly cleaned, they’re safe for rabbits to consume.
Can Rabbits Drink Tangerine Juice?
Yes, rabbits can drink tangerine juice in certain circumstances. If it’s organic juice and free from preservatives, it can be diluted with water to entice rabbits to drink if they won’t have water. You should always check with a vet before giving your pet a home remedy.
Can Baby Rabbits Eat Tangerines?
No, baby rabbits can’t eat tangerines. Young rabbits shouldn’t start eating new food until they’re over three months old. Until this point, they can only digest their mother’s milk, hay, and pellets. When they are old enough to try new food, make sure you introduce it gradually.
What Else Do Rabbits Eat?
Rabbits should have a diet that allows them to get all the nutrients they need. The most important part is that they get enough hay and water. They also need a variety of fresh, raw vegetables every day, a daily bowl of pellets, and occasional treats.
Tangerines count as the treat portion of a rabbit’s diet, which is why they can only be given to your rabbit occasionally. You should alternate the treats your rabbit eats, to prevent boredom and to ensure that they get to vary the nutrients they get.